Your Style Problems, Solved: Make Your Legs Look Longer In An Instant

A reader named Kylie writes us to say, "I love the look of shorts, especially now that it's hot out, but I can't stand my short legs! I don't want to draw attention to how stumpy they are, but I'd like to have another summer option besides skirts. Is there a pair of shorts out there that will flatter me?"

You don't need Cameron Diaz's gams to look chic in a pair of shorts--we swear! A few smart styling tricks will create the illusion that your pins go on for miles, and you'll be able to keep cool for the rest of the summer. The most important element is choosing the right shorts, of course. High-waisted styles will look great on you, because they start well above the hips, which makes it look like your legs start higher up than they do (the same effect that high-cut swimsuit gives you, but in shorts form!). Very tailored Bermudas will also elongate your silhouette, and anything with vertical details--piping, pleats, a row of buttons--will go a long way to lengthen you. Avoid cuffs (they cut you off and make your legs look even shorter) or anything with horizontal details, like whiskered denim.

Next, meet your new BFF, the nude shoe. These are a must for pretty much every girl, but especially ones who want the look of longer legs (bonus: you'll wear 'em with skirts and dresses, too!). If you don't like doing the high heels thing with shorts, go for a cork or wooden wedge, which will make you taller but still feel summer-y:

And finally, don't forget that your top plays a big role in how your proportions come off--shopping in the petites section is a great way to expose more leg, believe it or not! Petite tops are cut shorter, so you end up with something that hits your at your hips or waist instead of mid-thigh, which won't cut you off. Tucking 'em in can have the same effect:

There you have, it Kylie! Three easy steps to shorts perfection. Do any of your short-legged ladies out there have some tips to share? Oh and don't forget...we're always here to solve your style problems! Upload your issue here or leave it in the comments section below, and we'll have you looking chic in no time!